Update (March 30, 2021): On March 30, Mike Going, former president of Funjet Vacations, died at the age of 63 after three years battling a rare illness.
Last week, the travel industry rallied around Going as he entered hospice care at home.
Going’s daughter, Kate Going, established a GoFundMe campaign, called "Mike Going's Medical Fund" earlier this month to help with medical expenses; so far, the campaign has raised nearly $132,000 (the original goal was $100,000).
“After a year marked by difficulty for so many, we are both humbled and honored to be asked by so many friends ‘how they can help’ — we are starting this GoFundMe, as it seems to be the simplest and most direct way to receive that help,” she wrote on the GoFundMe post.
Once donations began pouring in, Kate added a follow-up post recognizing the more than 500 donors who had contributed to the campaign.
"Seeing everyone's names, love, and kind comments has been a bright spot during some very difficult days,” she said. “We can breathe a little easier now, although that has not quite set in yet.”
Before serving as Funjet’s president, Going’s 36-year career in the travel industry included positions at Air Jamaica, Alamo Rent a Car and Certified Vacations.
Prior to his death, friends and colleagues wrote words of encouragement.
"I have known Mike for over 24 years," said John Lovell, president of Travel Leaders Group. "He is one of most liked and loved individuals to ever grace this industry of ours. All of us are better for knowing Mike; he touched so many lives in a positive manner. I am proud to call him my friend and the big brother I never had. I am praying for Mike, Nancy and his children Kate and Connor."
"In the over 30 years that I’ve known Mike, starting with his Alamo days and the other positions he’s held throughout his career, I always found him to be one of the most thoughtful, insightful and caring gentlemen in the entire travel industry," added Roger Block, President of Travel Leaders Network. "His warmth and laughter are legendary. My heart breaks for Mike and his family, and we can only pray for a miracle cure."
Many donations were also paired with heartfelt notes for the Going family.
“For Mike, the epitome of what a true gentleman, leader, inspiration and friend looks like, you have all my support,” wrote Steve Loucks of Ovation Travel Group. “And to you and Nancy, I will hold you closely in my prayers. Wishing you peace and comfort.”
“I have known Mike for many, many years and am so sorry to hear this terrible news,” wrote Mary Pat Flanagan, senior vice president of North American sales at Jem Tours. “We at Jem Tours send thoughts and prayers to Mike and his family.
The GoFundMe campaign is still active and accepting donations.
The Details
Mike Going’s Medical Fund
www.gofundme.com
